impervious

word

Definition

Not allowing anything to pass through, such as liquid or heat. It can also mean not affected or influenced by something.

Usage & Nuances

Commonly used in scientific, technical, or formal contexts. Typical combinations: 'impervious to water', 'impervious to criticism'. Often describes materials, but can describe people who are unaffected by emotions or opinions. Not used for people physically (say 'immune', not 'impervious to a disease').

Example Sentences

This jacket is impervious to rain.

basic

Concrete is impervious to water.

basic

She remained impervious to their insults.

basic

Why are you so impervious to advice?

natural

The government seems impervious to public pressure lately.

natural

He pretends to be impervious, but criticism gets to him.

natural